Squeaks of shoes hitting the lines, and coach Precious Alex’s loud voice filled the gym. “Keep going,” “push harder,” “You can run faster,” every word falling on intently listening ears, taking direction straight to heart, 16 back and forths for the six turnovers from the last game, pushing through it with their all. Their attitudes never lacking, putting in 100% effort 100% of the time, moving and working together as one, all of the time. No matter how simple the drill, the court never quiets, with constant voices, high fives, and a type of energy that can’t be put into words. This team knows how to lock in while having a good time working hard, and the heart of it all is their head coach.

Alex pushes her players while creating a positive family-like atmosphere filled with laughs. “Our coach says we are a sisterhood,” said Vivienne McDonald. This is Alex’s second year as the head coach, but she had been an assistant coach the year before that, when her daughter was on the team. Alex is constantly communicating with the team and builds them mentally and physically. Her passionate coaching has built a cohesive team filled with drive and unity.

Their unity comes from repetition and practicing just about year-round, which helps them maintain their connection.  “Being together in summer workouts, lifting, and being together a lot, helps us understand each other and play better,” McDonald continued. They practice around eight months a year, which has made them very tight-knit, and by training throughout the year, they maintain their chemistry while building it. “We stay locked in the whole season on and off the court, and continue building team chemistry,” said Samarah Massey. They’re not just a team, they’re a family, and they care about each other on and off the court. “We love to support each other,” said Jalya Lackey. Benson’s girls’ basketball team has strong chemistry because of their dedication to building a stronger team dynamic. Massey continued, “The team dynamic is everybody staying positive and uplifting.” They work year-round to grow, both physically and mentally, and together in every aspect of the game.

Their chemistry is shown on the court, and just by watching them, it is seen how well they work together. These girls have worked to build connections and support, and they hope to make it to the state this year. “We are going to make it to the Chiles Center,” Lackey said. The last time Benson went to Chiles Center was in 2024. Benson is hungry for this title, and their effort shows that. Lackey said “We want to learn and get better. Last year, we weren’t as locked in, but this year we really want it.”